Australia and England are in mourning after the rising star was found dead, having never shown up for the final day.
The cricket world is mourning the shock death of 20-year-old spinner Josh Baker during a County Cricket reserves match in England.
Baker had been playing for Worcestershire’s second XI team against Somerset this week and took three wickets on day three.
But he never showed up the next morning for the fourth and final day.
The match, which resumed without Baker, was abandoned at lunch after he was found dead.
“Heartbroken” Worcestershire officials announced the “immense loss” at 4pm local time.
“The news of Josh’s passing has left us all devastated,” chief executive and former England spinner Ashley Giles said.
“Josh was much more than a teammate; he was an integral part of our cricket family. We will all miss him terribly. All our love and prayers go out to Josh’s family and friends.”
Worcestershire have not released a cause of death.
Baker, who was just two weeks away from celebrating his 21st birthday, had spent the summer in Australia playing for Northern Districts in NSW.
“The club is extremely saddened to hear about the tragic passing of Josh Baker overnight, ND’s First Grade player number 473, and more importantly a great friend to so many of the playing group and wider club,” Northern Districts said.
“Josh had a charismatic personality, was generous with his time and formed close bonds with everyone he connected with.
“We send our condolences to his parents Lisa and Paul, his family and friends and also to everyone at Worcestershire CCC at this difficult time.
“Love you Bakes.”
Baker had enjoyed a rapid rise through the ranks and made his first-class debut for Worcestershire in 2021.
In just his ninth match he was sought out by England captain Ben Stokes, who had scored a fast-paced century against Worcestershire, for a supportive text message.
“(Do not) let today define the rest of your season. You’ve got serious potential and think you’ll go a long way,” Stokes wrote.
Worcestershire described Baker as a “popular figure” who was “more than his skills as a spin bowler”.
“It was his vibrant spirit and infectious enthusiasm that endeared him to everyone he met,” the club wrote.
“His warmth, kindness, and professionalism were remarkable, making him a true credit to his family and a loved member of our team.”
Worcestershire vowed to support Baker’s family, friends and teammates.
“We are united in our grief and committed to honouring his memory in a manner befitting the remarkable person he was,” the club wrote.
“Plans to pay tribute to Josh will be made in consultation with his family and will remain private at this time.”
Baker’s local club Kenilworth Wardens was “shocked and devastated” to learn the news.
“Josh joined our club in 2021 — since then we have shared many happy times together on and off the field and hoped to share many more,” Kenilworth wrote.
“We send all of our love to Paul, Lisa and family.”
Pakistan international Usama Mir, a teammate in the T20 Blast, wrote: “So sad and upset to hear the news of Josh’s passing. He was one of the nicest people you could meet. And a brilliant cricketer. Really devastated to hear this news.”
